Ep 7. Kid 'n Play

UnSung season 9 episode 7 features the iconic hip hop duo Kid 'n Play. Through interviews with the two artists individually and together, as well as with those who knew them during their career, this episode delves into the rise and fall of Kid 'n Play's success and their impact on the hip hop scene.

Viewers are taken back to the origins of Kid 'n Play, with their childhood friendships and love for music. They talk about how they met and began collaborating on music, eventually leading to their first album "2 Hype" and the hit single "Rollin' with Kid 'n Play". The episode also explores their early years as rappers, their unique style setting them apart from other artists of the time.

The story of Kid 'n Play's success reaches a fever pitch with the release of their movie "House Party", which saw the duo expand into the world of film and catapult them to even greater fame. Interviews with the cast and crew of this film give insight into the behind-the-scenes process of making a classic film that still resonates with audiences today, including Kid 'n Play's memorable dance-off scene.

However, along with success came the pressure to maintain it. The episode explores the struggle Kid 'n Play faced as their music began to lose popularity and they tried to pivot to acting full-time. They talk about the challenges of shifting from music to film, including the difficulties of casting directors seeing them solely as "those guys from House Party". Viewers get a sense of the hard work that went into trying to stay on top, including Kid 'n Play's decision to start their own production company, which they hoped would help them create their own opportunities in Hollywood.

Through these challenges, Kid 'n Play remained true to who they were as artists, producing work that still stands out in the hip hop world today. The episode explores not only their contributions to the genre, but also their impact on the larger culture of the late 80s and early 90s. From their high-top fades to their bright and colorful clothing, Kid 'n Play's style influenced a generation of fans.

The episode also touches on Kid 'n Play's personal lives, including their struggles with addiction and the impact it had on their careers. They are honest about their regrets and mistakes, while also reflecting on the lessons they've learned along the way. Viewers get a sense of the camaraderie and friendship between Kid 'n Play, which they credit as one of the reasons they were able to create such successful work together.

Overall, UnSung season 9 episode 7 provides a detailed and meaningful look at the careers of Kid 'n Play. Through their interviews, viewers gain insight into the unique challenges faced by artists in the hip hop world, especially those who were trying to break into uncharted territory like film. The episode celebrates Kid 'n Play's contributions to music and culture, while also acknowledging the difficulties they faced along the way.